The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the theory and
practice of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This will include both
lectures and in-class labs. Lectures will emphasize general principles
and theory in GIS and the application of GIS to environmental and social
issues that today’s world confronts . Labs will be oriented towards concepts
discussed in class using desktop GIS to display and analyze spatial data.
The software we will use is ArcView GIS 3.2a, produced by ESRI. The goal
of this course is for students to learn the application of GIS to geographic
problems, and have an idea of what data and resources are necessary to
solve these problems. Environmental issues and sustainable development
will be emphasized

Students should:

learn the principal applications of computers to geographic problems

know the types of maps which may be produced with the aid of a computer

understand the principles and limitations of computer-assisted geographic
analyses and mapping

become familiar with the types and availability of data employed in computer-assisted
geographic applications, including mapping

collect or acquire, apply and analyze geographic data

III. ASSESSMENT:

Students' performance will be evaluated based on the following components:

4 non-cumulative examinations (45%)

Daily exercises (20%)

Weekly projects (20%)

Final project (10%)

Attendance and participation (5%)

Grades

A

90 or higher

B+

87-89

B

80-86

C+

77-79

C

70-76

D+

67-69

D

60-66

F

59 or lower

IV. EXAM POLICY

There will be 3 tests and a final exam. The lowest of the 3 test grades
will be dropped, but the final exam grade can never be dropped. The two
test and the final exam grades will each be worth 15% of the final grade.
There will be no makeups!

V. PARTICIPATION AND ATTENDANCE***

Attendance will be calculated as a percentage of total class periods
and will be taken on a regular basis. You will be held responsible for
any material covered in class. If you miss more than 4 class meetings,
you will be dropped automatically from the class! Remember, a perfect attendace
record could make a difference in your final grade

Class attendance is Essential in order to:

Obtain lecture material, which may not always be in the textbook.

Receive credit for participation and discussion in class.

Remain current on exam dates, as the syllabus may undergo revision from
time to time.

VI. LATE WORK***

Any late assignment will be penalized with a 10-point deduction for
every class period after the date due. Any late work received after 4:00PM
on Monday, Dec. 2 will be automatically penalized with a grade of 0!

VII. OTHER COMMENTS

Additional time may be required outside of class and lab time to complete
daily exercises, weekly assignments, and the final semester project. I
would recommend an additional 1 to 2 hours of your time be spen in the
lab outside of the regularly scheduled class and lab meetings.

It is your responsibility to turn in assignments correctly and on time.
Please keep up to date with due dates and project deadlines.

In completing the final semester project, it is important that students
identify their topic early and begin to plan their work appropriately.